English football’s primary supporters’ association has accused the UK Football Policing Unit of inappropriately referencing the Hillsborough disaster while participating in the ongoing conversation regarding alcohol consumption at matches.
The controversy arises from comments made by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who described current regulations prohibiting the sale of alcohol in stands as outdated and discriminatory. Burnham stated that the rules should be abolished to allow fans to drink at their seats or in the stands.
In response to the suggestion, the policing unit appeared to draw a connection to the Hillsborough tragedy, which occurred at Sheffield Wednesday’s stadium in 1989. However, a fan group representing supporters maintained that the disaster was not caused by alcohol consumption.
Critics argued that the police had not intended to make such a link but acknowledged the criticism, emphasizing that bringing up Hillsborough in this context was misguided given the nature of the original catastrophe.
I get the desire for a relaxed atmosphere, but the police reference feels like fearmongering rather than factual policing.
Using a tragedy to block common-sense policy changes is deeply offensive and completely misrepresents what happened at Hillsborough.